338 DIRECT BENEFITS DERIVED FROM INSECTS. 



of purple dye afforded by the Purpura of the ancients 

 did not prevent them from collecting it. 



I now conclude this long series of letters on the inju- 

 ries caused by insects to man, and the benefits which he 

 derives from them ; and I think you will readily admit 

 that I have sufficiently made good my position, that the 

 study of agents which perform such important functions 

 in the economy of nature must be worthy of attention. 

 Our subsequent correspondence will be devoted to the 

 most interesting traits in their history, as their affection 

 to their young, their food and modes of procuring it, 

 habitations, societies, &c. 



I am, &c. 



